FACE LIFT

A facelift or to use the medical term, rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reduces and improves the inevitable signs of aging on the face and neck, to produce a rejuvenated, less tired look.  The youthful facial contours are lost as we age due to gravity, sun damage, smoking and hereditary.  Skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity and facial fat is lost, which can result in deep lines, sagging, jowls around the checks and jawline and excess fat or skin on the neck.

When considering undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery, patients must be in good health both mentally and physically. It is crucial to understand that no two procedures will deliver exactly the same results. Patients need to have realistic expectations of the possible outcomes and should only undergo a facelift to fulfil their own desires, not to please someone else.  Any pre-existing medical conditions need to be disclosed, along with medications and treatments, in order for the surgeon to assess a patient’s physical suitability for undergoing a facelift operation.

When performing a facelift, the surgeon makes incisions in the hairline or behind the ears. A traditional facelift involves lifting and tightening the skin and tissue, removing any excess fat and skin and repositioning to create a firmer appearance. The operation can be carried out under sedation and local anaesthetic or a general anaesthetic, it usually takes around 3 hours but the exact duration will depend upon the extent of the surgery.

A facelift is an invasive cosmetic surgery procedure that is often carried out under general anaesthetic. Patients should expect to stay at least one or two nights in the clinic after the procedure to be monitored and ensure the initial recovery. It will be necessary to wear a headband and the head should be kept elevated for at least to two weeks to promote healing.